HC Deb 23 May 2002 vol 386 c523W
Dr. Tonge

To ask the Secretary of State for International Development, pursuant to his answer of 11 April 2002,Official Report, column 616W, on Israel, what the final cost of the damage to projects in the area administered by the Palestinian Authority that have been funded by the UK on a bilateral basis is; and what plans he has to call for financial compensation. [58520]

Clare Short

The final cost of damage to UK-funded projects has still to be confirmed. We have also recently learned of damage to fourteen vehicles the UK provided to the Palestinian police force in 1995. The replacement cost would be about £280,000. In common with European Union partners we reserve the right to seek compensation from the Israeli authorities.

Dr. Tonge

To ask the Secretary of State for International Development, pursuant to his answer of 11 April 2002,Official Report, column 616W, on Israel, what the outcome was of the meeting between the Task Force and Minister Eliezer. [58519]

Clare Short

No formal response was given by Minister Ben Eliezer. Subsequent discussions with the Israeli authorities reveal plans for a tightening of travel restrictions affecting the movement of people and goods. This has serious implications for the Palestinian economy, Palestinian society and the viability of the future Palestinian state. In common with the European Union, and other partners, we are considering how we should address this unwelcome development.

Mrs. Anne Campbell

To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what discussions she has had with other countries about co-operating in paying for the damage caused to Palestinian areas during the recent Israeli incursions with special reference to Jenin. [58020]

Clare Short

A World bank led team has recently completed a damage assessment. We have been fully involved in that process, including discussions about potential funding opportunities. Initial indications are that at least $150 million—out of an estimated total cost of $360 million—will be readily available for urgent priority repairs. We are currently discussing with the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian refugees the provision of long term technical assistance to support the rebuilding of the Jenin refugee camp.